Utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), or off-roading, four-wheeler vehicles, will be sharing some public roads with South Carolina drivers next month. The senate bill was introduced to legislators with a goal of providing practical transportation options for rural areas.
However, the law comes with lengthy restrictions and regulations.
First, any UTV driven on a public road must be registered with the DMV and insured like any other car. Drivers of UTVs must be 17-years-old or older and be licensed. The UTV must have working headlights, tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, and Type 2 seat belts at every seating position.
UTVs are not permitted on interstates.
Eligible UTVs must be able to reach top speeds of 55 miles per hour. They will only be allowed on roads with a speed limit of 55 MPH or less.
Other requirements listed by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPPS):
- The UTV must remain within 10 miles of the address listed on the registration certificate, or within 10 miles of an entrance to a gated community if the address is within the gated community.
- UTV operators are subject to general traffic laws including DUI, speeding, seatbelts, hands-free law, and more.
- Drivers and passengers under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet with face shield or goggles when the UTV is being driven on a public road.
- Passengers on the UTV must be at least 8 years old.
SCDPPS leaders emphasize UTVs are not permitted on public roads before the Nov. 18 implementation date. Violators could face fines.
